Russian Ambassador defends contacts with Hamas terrorists: They helped

Russia's ambassador to Israel, Anatoly Viktorov, in an interview with RTVI rejected criticism of Moscow's contacts with Hamas, stating they help resolve humanitarian issues and contributed to the release of hostages. He emphasized that Russia does not support terrorist activities, and commented on dialogue with Israel, the appointment of Roman Hoffman as Mossad chief, and prospects for resuming air traffic.

Russia's ambassador to Israel, Anatoly Viktorov, in an interview with RTVI rejected public criticism in Israel over the Kremlin's contacts with Hamas. He stated that these ties are used to resolve humanitarian issues and, in particular, helped secure the release of hostages. Viktorov stressed that Russia has never supported terrorist activities, and that Hamas is not a product of Russian activity, having emerged from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. According to him, a significant portion of contacts after October 2023 was devoted to facilitating the release of Israeli hostages, including Russian citizens. The ambassador noted that Moscow does not accept Israel's position on Hamas's status, but this does not hinder contacts with Palestinian groups. He expressed support for moving to the next phase of the American plan for the Gaza Strip, but believes that the situation must first be stabilized. Viktorov also commented on the appointment of Roman Hoffman as Mossad chief, saying he knows him personally. He reported that contacts between the two countries' security agencies continue. The ambassador said he does not expect major changes in relations after Israel's elections on October 27, and expressed hope for the resumption of El Al and Aeroflot flights.